Nursing Home Abuse News

Safety Advocate Applauds Government Decision Mandating Installation Of Smoke Detectors In Nursing Homes

The nation’s older nursing homes were primed for fire disaster that finally happened—tragically twice last year—when fires caused deaths of elderly residents at homes in Tennessee and Connecticut. The reason for the disaster—the homes were exempt from having to install sprinkler or fire alarm systems. That’s why a leading seniors’ safety advocate says the decision of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to mandate the installation of smoke detectors in nursing homes lacking sprinkler systems or hard-wired detection systems can help save the lives of nursing home clients, while providing increased peace of mind for caregiver families.

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	Did You Know?
	Anyone can report nursing home abuse and neglect. Anyone can and should report abuse and neglect. It is a violation of state and federal law for any person, including facility staff, volunteers, visitors, family members or guardians, or another resident, to abuse or neglect a resident. If you suspect abuse or neglect, or if a resident tells you they are experiencing this problem, it is important to believe the resident and report the allegation immediately. This will help prevent further suffering by any resident. Many states have laws that require the reporting of abuse and neglect. Find out what your state requires. Put your report in writing, date it, and keep a copy. Convey as much information as you can about the situation. Provide as much background information as possible. A thorough report will help the investigator to address the situation quickly.